COLUMBIA TWP., MI – The oil derrick is up on the 97-acre property Jackson County took ownership of in 2011, commonly referred to as the “Boyce property.”

While Savoy Energy, based out of Traverse City, has been exploring for oil on the property since spring, the oil derrick was constructed about two weeks ago, according to Jackson County Administrator Michael Overton.

“They’re (Savoy) going down 5,000 feet,” he said.

So far, the county has not been notified that oil has been discovered, Overton said. A call was made to Savoy, but officials were not immediately available for comment.

In August, Overton said there was a good chance of finding oil.

“It’s a significant investment on their part (Savoy) so I think the potential for success is good,” he said.

The land, 8200 Jefferson Road, was obtained by Jackson County in a tax foreclosure process in 2011 from David Brian Boyce — a man who did not recognize government and refused to pay taxes.